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Arizona Dust Storms: Pull Aside, Stay Alive!
20 Aug
Summary
- Dust storm warning issued for Maricopa and Pinal counties.
- Drivers urged to pull over and turn off lights if caught in dust.
- Haboobs are powerful, short-lived dust storms common in Arizona.
A dust storm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Phoenix on Wednesday, August 19, at 7:51 p.m. MST. The warning impacts Maricopa County in south central Arizona and Pinal County in southeastern Arizona, remaining in effect until 8:45 p.m. MST.
The National Weather Service reported a wall of dust moving northwest at 25 mph, with visibility reduced to less than a quarter mile and winds exceeding 50 mph. This poses dangerous, life-threatening travel conditions, particularly affecting Interstate 10 (mile markers 171-204), Interstate 8 (mile markers 129-178), and Route 87 (mile markers 124-157).
"Haboob" is the term for these large dust storms, which are common in Arizona during the monsoon season from June to September. They form when cold thunderstorm downdrafts hit the desert floor, kicking up dust. The Arabic word "haboob" translates to "big, blasting winds."
Haboobs are typically short-lived, lasting from a few minutes to an hour. However, lingering dust and reduced visibility can persist longer. The Arizona Department of Transportation's "Pull Aside, Stay Alive" campaign advises drivers to slow down immediately and find a safe place to pull completely off the roadway.
If caught in a dust storm, drivers should turn off all vehicle lights, engage the emergency brake, and keep their foot off the brake pedal. Staying buckled inside the vehicle is recommended until the storm passes. High-profile vehicles should travel at reduced speeds due to weather sensitivity.
